(@blackgirlsrun/@toni_carey)
I have to be honest. I never thought I could run in a minimalist shoe. But it was a member of the Brooks team that convinced me I could.
It all started back in April when I had an opportunity to have a specialized gait analysis done at REI’s SoHo store. It was there that I was introduced to Brooks PureProject Collection, specifically the Pure Cadence shoe.
After Brooks so graciously gifted me a pair, I decided to incorporate them into my shoe rotation. Yes, shoe rotation. Here’s the skinny on going minimalist. Most people get injured or hurt because they replace their regular running shoes for minimalist shoes. Wrong. Just like you have to work on increasing your mileage and time in regular running shoes, so should you for minimalist. Gradually working your way up in mileage is the key to making minimalist shoes work for you.
I typically do 2 -3 miles in my Pure Cadence shoes and focus more on form and being completely in tune with my body. On these runs, it doesn’t necessarily feel like I’m missing the support of my regular running shoe, but it does force me to focus more on landing mid-foot, which is better all around. And let me not forget to mention that you’ll definitely feel different afterwards. During these runs, my calves and quads feel a little more sore than normal.
While there are SEVERAL minimalist options to choose from, there’s a few reasons why the Pure Cadence is one of my faves.

Don’t judge me, but the color combinations offered are HOT!! Of course I have the hot pink and black ones, but I’m also a huge fan of the black and purple ones.

Think of these of being minimalist without the pressure. Again, whenever I run in these, it’s a truly different run, but I don’t feel like there’s a complete lack of support or that I might risk injuring myself.

This shoe also features an internal PDRB that naturally guides the foot. This is perfect for anyone making a transition from heel striking to mid-foot striking.

Did I mention they are lightweight? Once I started running more miles in them, I could appreciate all of its 8.3 ounces.

I would definitely recommend this shoe for any minimalist virgin looking to give minimalists shoes a try. Whether it’s these or another brand, here’s some things to keep in mind:
- There are two types of minimalist shoes: 1.) barefoot running shoes and 2.) minimalist running shoes. Most barefoot running shoes have a “zero drop” from heel to toe. Most traditional running shoes have a 12-15mm drop from the heel to toe. Minimalist running shoes have a minimal heel height of 4-10mm.
- Remember, transitioning from traditional running shoes to minimalist running shoes takes time. Don’t make the mistake of running fast and furious in these to quickly. Take your time and ease into them.
- Don’t get it twisted. You STILL need to have a gait analysis done. Just like traditional running shoes fit differently, so do minimalist running shoes and they all aren’t created equal.
Disclosure: As a blog ambassador for Brooks I receive product and other perks (including the Brooks Pure Cadence shoes). My thoughts and opinions are my own.